Before presenting the award, Mayor Righeimer mentioned Vanguard’s U.S. News and World Report ranking in the top ten of the 2014 Best Regional Colleges – West category. He also said that when choosing a recipient for the award, the council looks for people and organizations like Vanguard that have made a real impact on the community.

Upon receiving the award, President Beals thanked the mayor and the city and assured everyone present that Vanguard would continue to be an active member in the community. He told attendees about Vanguard’s recent City Serve, a day where hundreds of students went into multiple areas of the community to meet needs and serve others.

After the meeting, President Beals said he is “grateful that the mayor and the city recognize the importance and impact of Vanguard on this city.” As neighbors, Vanguard and the City have partnered on many initiatives. The partnership has been “powerful,” he said.